RS-485 Transceivers Employ Auto Direction

The MAX13487E and MAX13488E debut as the first half-duplex RS-485 transceivers to integrate AutoDirection, a feature that automatically enables the driver when transmitting data and eliminates the driver-enable control signal. The MAX13487E offers ±15 kV of ESD protection via the IEC 61000-4-2 air-gap discharge method, while both transceivers provide ±15 kV of ESD protection using the human-body model. The MAX13487E employs slew-rate-limited drivers to reduce EMI and ensure operation in noisy environments with transmission rates up to 500 Kb/s. The MAX13488E delivers data rates up to 16 Mb/s. Additionally, both devices specify a 1/4-unit load receiver input impedance, allowing for as many as 128 transceivers on the bus. Available in 8-pin SO packages with an operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, pricing for the MAX13487E and MAX13488E starts at $1.25 each/1,000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.